Traders selling potatoes at high rates to face action in Odisha

Amidst the ongoing shortage of potatoes leading to a price rise, the Odisha government on Tuesday issued a stern warning to those selling the tuber at higher prices.

Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra on Tuesday said that the government is exploring states from where potato stock can be procured.

“We cannot starve by depending on West Bengal. We will procure potatoes from Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and states which can meet our requirements. 48,000 quintals of potatoes loaded in two trains would be reaching Odisha soon. Already a decision has been taken and the potato stock will reach the state in the next four to five days,” said Patra.

When asked about traders who are making profits through illegal means, Patra said that the Odisha government has already started a crackdown and intensified raids on black marketers.

“I admit that prices are high in some places. Those who have hoarded potatoes and are creating artificial shortages would face action. The average rate of potato is now between Rs 30 to Rs 32 per kilo,” said Patra.

There are 1900 shops which have been set up to provide potatoes at subsidised rates.

Odisha Traders' Association (OTA) general secretary, Sudhakar Panda said, “The potato-laden trucks which were stranded on roads have started to come. Once this consignment gets exhausted, no more trucks will be coming as no loading has taken place. Earlier, the trucks which took one day to reach Odisha, are now taking 3 to 4 days. As a result, potato stock is getting damaged apart from leading to rise in transportation cost.”

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Panda further urged the Centre to intervene in the matter for a permanent solution to such issues.